The Three Gorges, the largest group of gorges in the world, are renowned both at home and abroad for their wonderful natural scenery. Three Gorges is the general name given to Qutang Gorge, Wuxia Gorge and Xiling Gorge. The Gorges zigzag for about 200km starting from Baidicheng of Chongqing in the west and ending in Hubei in the east. Dangerous precipices and peaks tower to the sky on both sides as a dramatic backdrop to frame the river.

Qutang Gorge, running for 8km, is especially deep water in the western-most section of the gorges and opposite mountains oppose one another, leaving only about 150m or less in width for the water to pass through a gate named Kuimen.

Wuxia Gorge is a more peaceful spot, spanning about 40km. There are a few quaint villages teetering along the cliff-side here, just visible from the ship deck.

Xiling Gorge, extending 75 km long, is the longest of the three, famous for its treacherous steep cliffs and violent currents, featuring some of the most spectacular and unusual scenery of all the gorges.

Daning River is a tributary of Yangtze River joining together in the Three Gorges. Daning actually passes through a section of dramatic steeps very similar to the Yangtze Three Gorges which have come to be known as the Mini Three Gorges. They are less crowded and some tourists have said they prefer this mini version that is more quiet with nature untouched by tourism.

There are a few charming villages nestled amongst the Gorges. The largest of these is Dachang town, an ancient site. Other interesting spots in this area include Baidi Cheng (White King Town) and the construction site of the great Three Gorges Dam.

It is almost impossible to reach these sights independently. The only realistic approach is to join a cruise touring the gorge. The admission fee to different sites is usually included in the tour charge and a cruise costs approximately US$300 per person for four-five day tour covering accommodation, food, guide, sightseeing and activities.